The internet has really revolutionized the concept of working from home. There are so many Web-based businesses out there! Mind you, there are options that aren’t online, too. Working from home is appealing because you can set your own hours and prices. It can fill a void for those who can’t keep a traditional job. Personally, I have always dreamed of an at-home career! Here is a list of ideas to get you started:
This has to be the most awesome online business ever! Anybody that enjoys writing can blog. There are many hosting services, both free & paid. For those who don’t want to design their own, Blogelina has a great Start Up package. I personally set up my own site, but for the less tech-savvy, it can be a bit complicated. Blogging can be a hobby or a business. If you want to make it a business, treat it like one! Yes, friends and family will read it, but if you want to expand, you need advertising.
2. Online Store
This could be Ebay, Etsy, Craigslist, etc. You can sell off stuff you no longer want, gifts you don’t like, resale items, antiques, handmade crafts. My sister has an amazing Etsy store for her clay. The list is truly endless.
3. Child Care
Whether it’s baby sitting, an in-home day care, being a mother’s help, etc. Since most parents work, quality childcare is a necessary, growing field. This works especially well for mothers of young children that are home anyway and need some extra income.
4. Food Business
There are all different types of food businesses—cake decorating, prepared mixes, candies, condiments, baked goods. If you’re a really good cook, try offering cooking classes. This field usually requires a license from the Health Department.
5. Sewing
If you’re a good seamstress, you can do alterations at home, or create beautiful custom pieces to order. Many people lack all ability to sew—even a button!—and will gladly pay for alterations. When I was growing up, there was a local lady we called “Marlene the dressmaker.” Her claim to fame was that she’d come to your home. Many times, I’d hear someone bemoan that her skills were mediocre, but the service was excellent!
6. Farmer’s Market
If you enjoy gardening, you can grow crops or flowers. Both sell well at Farmer’s Markets. Some also accept prepared foods and other goods. Many Farmer’s Markets are now year-round, too.
7. Laundry
This is an old-school idea. Years ago, some ladies used to take in other people’s washing for a small fee. It’s not as common now, with the availability of dry cleaners and Laundromats. You can do what those companies do, probably better and cheaper, too!
8. Pet Sitting
This could be done in your own home or the owner’s. Pet boarding is becoming very popular. A lot of people don’t want to take their animal to a kennel and would love to have someone safe and loving watch their pet.
9. Tutor
Many children and, even some adults, need a tutor. You can teach anything you are accomplished at. Foreign languages are especially in need. I know one lady that teaches Hebrew part-time over Skype! Also, homeschoolers are a huge market.
10. Music Lessons
If you’re a musician, you can teach others to play. Piano, violin, the flute, and guitar are all popular. I see ads in the windows of music stores offering lessons constantly.
11. Raise/Breed Animals
This could be dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. Puppy Mills are horrible! Clean, human breeders always get traffic, especially around the holidays. If you have land, you could try livestock, either to sell or eat.
12. Flexible Profession
Before I was a Blogger, I used to be a Realtor. I was able to work mostly from home, when I wanted. I know of doctors, lawyers, dentists, insurance agents, and hairdressers who’ve built an office that’s attached to their home.
13. Landlord
Renting property can be a great source of income, both residential and commercial. If you’d like to buy your own home, but can’t afford it, look into a duplex. The rental fee can often cover the entire mortgage for both units.
There are many more options, but I think I’ll save that for Part 2!
Would you like to work from home?
